Late Night Transit During the Olympics: How to Get Home After Evening Events

The 2028 Olympics Means Extended Service Hours

LA Metro will extend service hours specifically for the 2028 Olympics, especially on lines serving major venues. Basketball, hockey, volleyball, and other evening sports will have games starting at 7 PM, 8 PM, and later. This means trains will run much later than normal to accommodate fans traveling home after events.

LA Metro typically announces Olympic service changes 2–3 months before the Games. Check metro.net and download the LA Metro app to see the exact service hours for your specific return trip.

Which Lines Have Extended Evening Service?

During the 2028 Olympics, expect extended service on these key lines serving Olympic venues:

Note: All times are estimates. LA Metro will announce exact service hours by mid-2028. Download the app and check before your event to confirm the last train departure time.

Checking the Last Train Time Before You Go

Here's how to plan your return trip before leaving your hotel or starting point:

1. Open the LA Metro Journey Planner or the LA Metro mobile app
2. Enter your venue station (e.g., "Civic Center" for Downtown venues)
3. Enter your destination (hotel, home, etc.)
4. Set the departure time to when you expect to leave the venue (e.g., 11 PM)
5. Review the last available train that gets you home before midnight or later
6. Screenshot or write down the exact station and departure time
7. Plan to arrive at the station 10–15 minutes early to account for crowds

Game-Day Timing: When Events End and Crowds Leave

Understanding when crowds disperse helps you plan your departure:

For the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, expect the longest post-event transit delays. Thousands of people will flood the system simultaneously. If possible, stay in the area or at the venue longer to let crowds clear.

Late Night Train Frequency

During Olympic events, trains will run more frequently in the evening than usual, but less frequently than peak daytime hours. Expect these approximate frequencies:

Even during late hours, don't miss a train by just a few minutes — the next one may not come for 12–15 minutes, and you'll miss your window to get home.

Alternative Options If You Miss the Last Train

Rideshare (Uber, Lyft)

If you miss the last train, rideshare is available but expect:

• Surge Pricing: Prices will be 2–5x normal rates after major events
• Long Wait Times: 20–45 minute waits for pickup, not guaranteed availability
• Cost: $20–$60+ depending on distance (vs. $1.75 metro)

Rideshare is a backup option, not your primary plan. Plan to catch the last Metro train instead.

Staying Overnight

If you miss the last train, some people choose to:

• Stay at a nearby hotel for the night
• Wait until morning for the first train (usually around 5–6 AM)
• Stay at the venue or a nearby location until morning

Research hotels near major venues ahead of time if this is a possibility for you.

Planning Your Late Night Route

From Crypto.com Arena (Downtown)

If you're staying in a different part of the city:

• To North LA / Burbank / Pasadena: Red Line to your destination line (Gold or Red)
• To Long Beach / South LA: Blue Line south to your destination
• To the Valley: Red Line north to Van Nuys or Burbank area

From SoFi Stadium (Inglewood)

Late night from SoFi:

• To Downtown: K Line to Exposition/Vermont, then Red Line
• To North LA: K Line to Exposition, transfer to line heading north
• To Long Beach: K Line to Exposition, transfer to Blue Line south

Expect 45–60 minute total trips during late night, slightly longer than daytime due to lower frequency.

Safety on Late Night Transit

Using Metro late at night is generally safe, especially during Olympic Games when there's increased staff and security. Still, take sensible precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings even if tired from the event
• Keep your TAP card and ID secure
• Avoid standing alone on empty platforms — stay near other people
• Ride in the conductor's car on the train (center car usually)
• Have your phone charged and know which station is yours
• Travel with friends if possible
• Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, alert staff immediately

Preparing for Your Late Night Trip

Before the Event

• Download the LA Metro app to your phone and charge your battery fully
• Plan your return route using the Journey Planner
• Screenshot the last train departure time and station
• Notify someone where you're going and when you expect to arrive home
• Wear comfortable shoes — you'll be walking and waiting
• Bring a light layer (stations can be cool at night)

During the Event

• Keep an eye on the time — don't lose track of when you need to leave
• Stay alert to any announcements about transit changes or special service
• Make sure your phone stays charged for the return trip

After the Event

• Leave the venue with enough time to walk to the station and catch your train
• Don't cut it close — crowds move slowly, and unexpected delays happen
• Once at the station, verify the next train departure using real-time boards
• Have your TAP card ready for tapping in
• Board the train with confidence and find a seat or safe standing area

Real-Time Service Information

Always check for service changes or delays before heading to the station:

• LA Metro Website: metro.net/alerts/ for real-time service status
• LA Metro App: Push notifications alert you to service changes and last-train information
• At the Station: Electronic boards show next train arrival times and service alerts
• Call: (323) 922-2000 for non-emergency service questions

What to Bring on a Late Night Trip

• Fully charged phone (crucial for navigation and emergencies)
• TAP card with sufficient balance loaded
• Valid ID or ticket
• Light jacket or sweater (stations are cool)
• Water bottle (refill at water fountains if available)
• Snacks for energy during the ride
• Headphones or entertainment for waiting time
• A note or phone reminder of your destination station

Sleeping on the Train?

It's normal to feel tired after exciting Olympic events. While it's okay to rest on the train, don't fall into deep sleep:

• Stay aware of which station is approaching (listen for audio announcements)
• Set a phone alarm or ask a friend to wake you at your stop
• Don't let your head drop so far that you lose track of your surroundings
• Keep your bag close to you while resting

Contacting Someone About Your Trip

If you're running late or missing your planned return train:

• Text or call whoever is expecting you to let them know you'll be delayed
• Provide them with an estimated arrival time
• Keep your phone charged so you can communicate
• If you're stranded or unsafe, call 911 or alert Metro staff immediately

Special Closure Nights

A few nights during the Olympics, some lines may have reduced or no service for special events (like the Opening or Closing Ceremony). LA Metro will announce these well in advance with alternative routes published. Always check metro.net before planning any late-night trip during the Olympic period.